Gateron Box CJ vs. Kailh Box White V2

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, particularly when comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box White V2. The Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, is designed for speed and smoothness, making it ideal for those who value rapid response times in their typing. Its characteristic higher-pitched clacks offer a distinct auditory feedback that some typists may find appealing. Additionally, with an unlubed design, the Box CJ provides a versatile canvas for enthusiasts who may wish to fine-tune the feel with their own lubrication choices. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 caters to users who appreciate the classic tactile feedback and satisfying click sound. This clicky switch combines a pronounced auditory signal with a tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy a more interactive feel with each keystroke. While both switches have their dedicated fans, one leans toward speed and smoothness while the other emphasizes tactile feedback and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Box CJ Linear

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Box CJ and Kailh Box White V2 switches share a significant similarity in their top housing material. Both utilize polycarbonate for this part of the switch, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As both switches feature this stiffer plastic, players can expect a pronounced and resonant tonal quality when actuating keys. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing also enhances the visual experience, particularly for users who incorporate RGB lighting into their setups. This design choice ensures that both switches not only sound good but also appear striking when illuminated.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh Box White V2 switches utilizes nylon, a material renowned for its sound-absorbing qualities. The nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile, which contrasts sharply with the higher frequencies produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination allows for a unique auditory experience: the top housing heightens the clarity and pitch when pressing the key, while the bottom housing enriches the sound, creating a balanced and rounded acoustics. The dual material approach leads to a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the sound when the key bottoms out and the top housing influencing the sound upon release.

Overall, while there are distinct characteristics attributed to the housing materials of each switch, the pairing of polycarbonate and nylon in both cases results in similar auditory experiences. The polycarbonate top contributes clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottom infuses warmth and depth. Users who enjoy typing on either switch will experience a harmonious blend of tonal qualities that reflect the strengths of both materials, lending a unique but comparably satisfying typing experience across both the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh Box White V2.

Weight

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch exhibit some similarities and differences in their force characteristics. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a comparable typing experience when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly; the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it heavier than the Box White V2, which culminates at a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. Consequently, while both switches offer a medium-light actuation, the Box CJ will provide a more substantial feel at the bottom, catering to users who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Box White V2's lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for those who favor prolonged typing sessions with less effort. Thus, if you're looking for a heavier push feel, the Gateron Box CJ is the better choice, while the Kailh Box White V2 appeals to those seeking a lighter option.

Travel distance

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference might seem minor, but it can significantly affect the typing experience. The Box CJ, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the Box White V2’s shorter travel distance could offer quicker response times that some gamers might prefer, enhancing their gaming experience by allowing faster actuation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference: those who favor a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the Gateron Box CJ, while those seeking rapid actuation may lean towards the Kailh Box White V2.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces a higher-pitched, clacky sound, which is distinct, crisp, and bright, offering an engaging auditory experience for typists. This lively sound profile is complemented by a chirpy undertone that adds a unique acoustic signature, creating an atmosphere that can be both stimulating and enjoyable. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is characterized by its sharp and definitive audible click that provides clear tactile feedback. The click sound is snappy, allowing users to easily recognize actuation with each keystroke, which can enhance typing rhythm and satisfaction. While both switches have distinct audio characteristics, the Box CJ’s clacky and chirpy tones versus the Box White V2’s pronounced click define their unique auditory identities.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ is known for its impossibly smooth push, gliding effortlessly with each keystroke. This smoothness, while unlubed from the factory, creates a raw and pure typing experience, potentially allowing users to customize it further should they choose to add lubrication. The lack of additional friction enhances speed, making this switch ideal for those who prioritize rapid response in their typing. The Kailh Box White V2, on the other hand, offers a pronounced tactile bump with each keypress, fulfilling a clicky switch's characteristic feel. The tactile feedback is satisfying and enhances the typing experience, especially for those who appreciate the tactile communication inherent in clicky switches. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CJ catering towards a smooth and speedy performance and the White V2 favoring tactile responsiveness.

In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box White V2 switches present contrasting auditory and tactile experiences suited to different types of users. The Box CJ's clacky and chirpy sounds, combined with its smooth push feel, make it ideal for those who prioritize speed and a light audio experience. Conversely, the Box White V2's sharp click and tactile feedback provide a distinct type of satisfaction for typists who enjoy a more pronounced typing rhythm. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the specific sound and feel one desires from their mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

In closing, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize speed and a smooth typing experience, particularly for gaming or rapid typing, the Box CJ is the better option. Its medium-light actuation force of 57 grams allows for quick responses, making it ideal for fast-paced environments. Additionally, the clacky sound profile adds a lively auditory feedback that can enhance your enjoyment of typing. Conversely, if you appreciate tactile feedback and enjoy the auditory cues while you type, then the Kailh Box White V2 switches would be more suitable for you. With their light actuation force of 50 grams and crisp click, they provide a satisfying experience for both typing and general use, particularly in scenarios where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly. Consider your environment as well; the Box Whites can be a bit loud, making them more appropriate for personal or dedicated setups rather than shared workspaces. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different styles of typing and usage, so reflect on what aspects are most important to you before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

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Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more